Story perspectives

Brooklyn Man Sentenced for Plot Against Iranian Dissident

1/29/2026

Summary

Rivera Sentenced for Conspiracy

Carlisle Rivera, a Brooklyn man, was sentenced to 15 years for his role in a failed murder-for-hire plot against Masih Alinejad, an Iranian dissident.
Rivera pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges before United States District Judge Lewis Liman.
Alinejad, an Iranian dissident and critic of Iran's head-covering laws, survived assassination attempts by the Revolutionary Guard.
After sentencing, Alinejad urged the United States to hold Iranian leaders accountable and protect free speech.

Summary

Trump Warns Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran on January 28 to negotiate a nuclear deal or face a more severe military response, saying time is running out.
He referenced a previous military strike following his last warning.
He said a naval force, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, is approaching Iran.
Iranian officials have not sought negotiations amid ongoing protests in Iran against government repression.

History

Historical Context

The 1979 Iranian Revolution overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, leading to the establishment of a theocratic regime under Ayatollah Khomeini that suppressed dissent. Following the revolution, political purges escalated, with over 900 executions reported between 1980 and 1981. Today, activists like Masih Alinejad face ongoing threats from the Revolutionary Guard, highlighting the regime's continued repression of free speech.

1 of 3

Rivera Sentenced for Conspiracy

Carlisle Rivera, a Brooklyn man, was sentenced to 15 years for his role in a failed murder-for-hire plot against Masih Alinejad, an Iranian dissident.
Rivera pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges before United States District Judge Lewis Liman.
Alinejad, an Iranian dissident and critic of Iran's head-covering laws, survived assassination attempts by the Revolutionary Guard.
After sentencing, Alinejad urged the United States to hold Iranian leaders accountable and protect free speech.

1 / 3